Cristiano's best buddy

There was a time at Real Madrid in which, when it came to Barcelona, Mesut Özil was assigned to the bench. Specifically, that happened during Mourinho's first season with 'Los Blancos', when defence took precedence over attack. Usually, therefore, it was the German who was sacrificed to make way for more manpower in midfield. There is now no doubt that Cristiano and Özil will play against Barcelona, alongside nine others.

The German is a safe bet against Barcelona. He is no longer the player that takes a back seat during big matches. Quite the opposite, he is even more noticeable during derbies and 'Clásicos', something Özil proved in the last clash against Atlético (he scored a goal, his fourth against the 'Rojiblancos') and has been demonstrating in recent matches against Barcelona, above all those played in 2012.

Özil is the best partner for Cristiano Ronaldo in the 'Clásicos', having set him up for four goals. A fifth assist to Benzema should be added to that, plus the goal he scored last season at the Bernabéu in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup.